Print

Crispy Fried Anchovies with Lemon & Red Onion

Print Recipe

A Mediterranean-style appetizer featuring lightly floured, golden-fried anchovies served with zesty lemon wedges and paper-thin red onion slices. Perfectly crisp with a briny bite—ideal for snacking or as a seafood starter.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb fresh anchovies, cleaned and heads removed
  • 1/2 cup fine cornmeal or semolina flour
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse anchovies under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
  2. In a shallow bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, salt, and pepper.
  3. Dredge the anchovies in the flour mixture until evenly coated. Shake off excess.
  4. Heat about 1 inch of oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.
  5. When the oil is hot (around 350°F / 175°C), fry the anchovies in batches for 2–3 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
  6. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with red onion slices, lemon wedges, and fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Ensure anchovies are well-dried before dredging to prevent splattering during frying.
  • For added crunch, double dredge the anchovies.
  • Serve with a side of aioli or tartar sauce for dipping.

Nutrition

Keywords: fried anchovies, Mediterranean seafood, crispy anchovy recipe, seafood appetizer, anchovies with lemon and onion

Find it online: https://epicrecipebox.com/crispy-fried-anchovies-with-lemon-red-onion/